Mexico City is a big and exciting place, and there are multiple options to get around. In this Mexico travel video, I show how to use the MetroBus, a public bus system that — depending on where you’re going and what time you go — can one of the most efficient ways to travel in Mexico City.
On my most recent stay in Mexico’s capital, I spent two and a half months in the lovely Condesa district, a hip and fun neighborhood where it’s easy to walk to restaurants, bars and shopping. But our place was a long walk from the nearest Metro station. So how do you get around Mexico City economically when you’re not near the Metro?
Depending on where you’re staying, the Mexico City MetroBus may be a good choice — and it can save you a lot of money compared to Uber (even though ride-share apps are a great deal in Mexico City, too).
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How to Get Around Mexico City using the MetroBus
Whether you’re visiting this busy metropolis on a Mexico vacation or a business trip, there are lots of ways to get around Mexico City. You can take Uber, which is far more economical than in the United States, or the rideshare app called DiDi, which is even cheaper. Both are generally safer and more reliable than taxis. The Mexico City Metro, the second-largest in North America after New York City’s Subway, is another good option, especially if you like taking mass transit.
But how do you use the Mexico City MetroBus?
The MetroBus system is especially great for budget travel and planning an affordable vacation in Mexico City. In addition to showing where to buy a bus ticket and metro card in Mexico City, I answer a variety of questions about how to use the system in this Mexico travel video.
What is the Mexico City MetroBus?
Opened in 2005, the MetroBus is a fast and cheap way to get around Mexico City. It’s considered a BRT, or Bus Rapid Transit system, designed to be more reliable and carry more people than a normal bus. The 130-passenger double-decker buses that run along Paseo de la Reforma boulevard are impressive, but the most common type have either two or three articulated, attached cars. The three-unit buses are probably longer than any you’ve ridden on before.
Unlike other city buses, most of the MetroBus routes operate on dedicated lanes, so the buses can often be faster than cars.
To show you how to ride, we’ll follow the line along Avenida Insurgentes, one of the city’s busiest streets.
How much does it cost to take a bus in Mexico City?
Step 1 is to buy a Metro card at the vending kiosk. The card itself (without ride credits) costs about 15 pesos — about 73¢ U.S.— and you buy it from one of the bus stop vending machines at any of the stations. The card also works in the Mexico City Metro, so you can also buy one in any of the underground Metro stations. Either way, once you have a card and charge it up with however much credit you want, you’ll be ready to use both forms of transportation.
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How do you buy a Metro card or bus ticket in Mexico City?
Just follow the on-screen instructions to buy a card or add value, and you can pay in cash. Each ride costs just six pesos — that’s about 29¢.
After you have your card loaded, proceed to the turnstile and press the card to the screen to enter the platform.
MetroBus stations are clean and modern, and you usually don’t need to walk far to get to the bus boarding area. Be sure to check directions and routes on the station maps and bus arrival times on the video monitors. Also be sure to check the signs above boarding doors to make sure you’re going in the right direction. Once your bus arrives, stand back and get ready to board.
How to Ride the Mexico City MetroBus
Pay attention to signage in the boarding area — some doors are only for women, children and people with disabilities. On board the bus, pink seats in front are reserved for women only. Gray seats are for everyone, and you’ll find plenty on these giant buses.
Remember during the pandemic that you must wear a face mask.
Once the bus approaches your stop, simple exit the bus and follow the signs for the exit. You don’t need to use your card to exit.
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Is bus travel safe in Mexico City?
Like any big city, Mexico City has crime, and you should be careful regardless of how you’re traveling. Put your cell phone away and don’t wear ostentatious jewelry or watches.
For your own safety and comfort, it’s a good idea to avoid using mass transit during rush hours, since the crowds can be intense. (Although personally, I never experienced crowding on the MetroBus that was anywhere near what I’ve seen on the Metro.)
Overall, I recommend the Mexico City MetroBus for budget-conscious travelers who are staying or visiting an area near one of the routes. I hope my Mexico City travel video has given you a better idea of what the experience is like!
I’m a travel writer, travel blogger and Mexico travel specialist, and I love sharing travel tips to make your next vacation or business trip better. Please feel free to share your comments, experiences and questions about Mexico travel and Latin America travel and vacations!
Please also be sure to follow my travels on Instagram and on my YouTube channel, so you don’t miss any of my travel tips or travel videos. ¡Buen viaje!